Saving Historic Moorestown (SHM), an organization dedicated to preserving Moorestown’s vital historical structures, today announced the landmark acquisition of the historic Cowperthwaite House at 85 Kings Highway. This significant Revolutionary War-era property was secured through a generous and charitable gift of the property from Goodman Properties, a leading commercial real estate developer, ensuring the permanent preservation of this critical piece of Moorestown’s history.
A Timely Acquisition for the Nation’s Semiquincentennial
The timing of this acquisition is particularly critical as the nation and Moorestown prepare to celebrate the 250th anniversary (Semiquincentennial) of the American Revolution, culminating in 2026. The Cowperthwaite House, designated locally as one of the few remaining “Witness Houses,” is a tangible link to the founding era. Its preservation represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to honor the sacrifices and stories of New Jerseyans during the war.
“The Cowperthwaite House is one of Moorestown’s few remaining Revolutionary War structures, and its saving is an essential contribution to the town’s celebration of America’s 250th birthday,” said Julie Maravich, President of Saving Historic Moorestown. “Their charitable gift of this property is a monumental act of preservation philanthropy that ensures this site—which touches on everything from early American education and the fight for independence to pioneering voting rights—is protected. We want the entire community to be involved in all aspects of its preservation, making this project truly a collective effort.”
More Than a Witness: A Repository of NJ History
Dating to circa 1742, the Cowperthwaite House is one of Moorestown’s most historically important homes, built by Thomas Cowperthwaite on what was originally a 250-acre plantation. Its strategic location directly on Kings Highway meant it was one of the first structures British troops encountered during the withdrawal of Philadelphia where 7700 British and Hessian troops marched into Moorestown. The house’s significance extends far beyond the Revolution. It is also a site of early American civic life:
• Pioneer of Education: Local tradition holds that school was conducted in a second-floor room of the home prior to the construction of the first school building in 1785.
• Early Voting Rights: The house was home to Anne Cowperthwaite, who, in 1807, exercised her right to vote under New Jersey’s original 1776 state constitution—a period when the law allowed free property owners, male or female, Black or white, to vote.
Archeological First Phase and Preservation Goals
The immediate first step in the preservation effort will be a comprehensive phase 1 archeological survey on the property grounds. This crucial investigation is being initiated and sponsored by the Historical Society of Moorestown. The findings will be essential to inform the house’s restoration and will serve as the basis for the subsequent goal of nominating the Cowperthwaite House for placement on the State and National Registers of Historic Places, securing its long-term recognition and protection. Following this phase, SHM will launch a capital campaign to fund the comprehensive, multi-year restoration of the structure.
Community Celebration & How to Support
The community is invited to join Saving Historic Moorestown, the Historical Society of Moorestown, and representatives from Goodman Properties for a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony to formally mark the beginning of this exciting preservation project
• Date: Thursday, December 4, 2025
• Time: 10:30AM
Location: The Cowperthwaite House, 85 Kings Highway, Moorestown, NJ
This ceremony will serve as the public launch of the preservation campaign and the first opportunity for residents to learn how they can get involved in saving this essential historic landmark. Donations to the Cowperthwaite Preservation Fund can be made immediately at the following link: savinghistoricmoorestown.org/donate.
Background on Partner Organizations
• Goodman Properties: A commercial real estate developer that has demonstrated a strong commitment to community enrichment through the philanthropic donation of the Cowperthwaite House to Saving Historic Moorestown.
• Saving Historic Moorestown (SHM): SHM is an all-volunteer organization committed to identifying, documenting, and working to preserve Moorestown’s most significant historic buildings. Learn more and support our work at savinghistoricmoorestown.org.
• The Historical Society of Moorestown (HSM): Located at the Smith-Cadbury Mansion (Moorestown’s Historic Museum), HSM serves as the community’s primary resource for local history, maintaining archives, hosting exhibits, and conducting tours. Learn more at moorestownhistory.org
